Fun Things To Do In Santa Barbara, CA

Attractions, Sightseeing and Events

Perpetually laidback Santa Barbara is a city of white-washed buildings and red-tiled roofs, tucked between the mountains and the sea, resonating with an irresistible allure. Santa Barbara’s architectural style is iconic, and our coastal enclave is equally well known for its pedestrian-friendly downtown, historic buildings and hotels, cultural events and festivals, lush public parks and gardens, miles of beaches and welcoming locals. Above all else, Santa Barbara knows how to celebrate the art of good living. Foodies sip and savor the region’s eccentric mix of cuisine accompanied by superb local wines. Visitors delight in our Spanish-influenced architecture and the diversity of our arts and culture. Everyone enjoys our 300 days of sunshine a year and nearly limitless opportunities for outdoor fun. And those who tread lightly while traveling appreciate our dedication to sustainable tourism. Santa Barbara is contrast and complement, natural art and human art, the simple and sophisticated, the old world and the new. It is The American Riviera®.Skip to Best Places to Stay. Best Time to Visit. Visitor Information. View Map.

Founded in 1782, Mission San Buenaventura, was the ninth of California's 21 missions and the last to be established by Father Junipero Serra. Destroyed by fire in the 1790s, the church was rebuilt over a period of a dozen years and rededicated in 1809.

National Park One of Ventura's most wondrous attractions, often refered to as the American Galapagos is accessible for multi-day camping trips. (14 miles off coast) Explore America's Galapagos One of Ventura's most wondrous attractions lies 14 miles out to sea.

Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara, California is in the summer and fall. Summer temperatures are mild with averages in the mid 60's and highs in the upper 70's. Nights are cool with lows in the mid 50's. Fall temperatures are cool with averages in the low 60's and highs in the low 70's. Fall nights are cold with lows in the upper 40's.